Payton Pritchard (Left) Jaylen Brown (Middle) Derrick White (Right) of the Boston Celtics
The Boston Celtics enter the 2025-26 season with big changes and many questions. After last season’s heartbreaking exit and losing its superstar due to injury, are the Celtics now the underdogs of the East?
The first name many will look to is Jaylen Brown. Brown has been an All-Star two-way player for years behind Jayson Tatum, but now, as the lead man, he must carry more of a load than ever before. Being the 11th highest-paid player in the league, this is to be expected from Brown night in and night out, and will be put to the test as to whether he is worth the contract he was awarded.
Another key player of this Celtics team is Derrick White. He has become one of the most trusted players in the league due to his decision-making and ability to do everything well. White can run the offense as a point guard, shoot from the three, while also being one of the best defenders on the team. With Tatum out, White’s role will grow even larger, and he might be the engine that keeps the Celtics moving.
After coming off an incredible season and claiming the Sixth Man of the Year award, Payton Pritchard will be a player to watch as he steps into the starting lineup. The Celtics will look to depend on their sharp shooting, shifty guard, and give the team a spark they might just need.
The Celtics also made major changes to the roster, losing key pieces from their championship team just a season ago, like veterans Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis, and fan favorite Al Horford. With all three being starters for the team, the Celtics had to go out and make up for what they lost. They did that by signing Anfernee Simons, a young, skilled guard who can be a major threat in the Celtics’ offense. Chris Boucher, a veteran big man, was also acquired by the Celtics, who can bring rebounding, strong defense, and leadership in the locker room.
Boston also added young talent through the draft. Hugo Gonzales will be a player to watch as he emerges into the lineup. With Tatum being out and the team shipping out stars over the offseason, there will be countless opportunities for Gonzales to step up and make an impact the team needs.
Head Coach Joe Mazzulla faces a tough test. He’s going to build game plans without his best player and find the right lineups. The Celtics still gave him a new contract, showing they believe in the young coach, but this year will be his biggest challenge yet.
The Celtics are still built on defense. That has always been their strength over the years. They have to get back to the basics, dominating teams on the defensive side of the ball while also trying to find their stride on the offense with ball movement and unselfish basketball. Even without Tatum, they have talent to compete and will be a dark horse in the Eastern Conference this season.